Many weddings were quick affairs, and brides wore white suiting. Almost two-thirds of the grooms of this era were enlisted in the military and got married in their military attire. Wedding bands for men were new and served as a symbol of commitment for soldiers away from home.

1940s weddings were during wartime

The 1970s showed brides with beautiful headpieces and high-neck dresses. The grooms came into style too, with velvet tuxedos and ruffled shirts. The 1980s featured prairie-inspired silhouettes and ladylike hats.

1970s and 1980s Wedding styles

The flapper style occupies a central place in the bridal fashion of the 1920s, characterized by beautiful accessories and exaggerated Juliet veils, as well as detailed headdresses. During the Great Depression of the '30s, weddings were a humble affair featuring repurposed gowns and minimal decor.

1920s - 1930s wedding styles

In the 2010s, weddings and bridal fashion have embraced themes in unprecedented ways: the rustic barn, bohemian style, garden, Italian villa and high fashion. In the first decade of social media, the style of weddings has reached new heights, with people photographing weddings more than ever before.

2010s embraced themes

The brides in the early 1900s wore s-shaped corsets that enhanced an hourglass shape. Long sleeves, high collar and gloves added dignity and formality. In the 1910s, dancing emerged as a wedding activity, causing slightly higher hemlines on the bride's and guests' gowns to assist with dancing. Makeup also gained popularity.

Weddings of the 1900s and 1910s

The appliqués of the 1990s brides dresses are characteristic of this era—shiny, long-sleeved ball gowns covered with sparkling, beaded lace. The 2000s shows sleek, clingy satins, cap sleeves and straight-across strapless necklines.

Brides of the 1990s and 2000s

Wedding fashion seems to change constantly. What is in style and beautiful today is outdated within a year. Yet, looking over the wedding dress history, a lot was the same during the last century, even though a lot was different.

Wedding dress and fashion history 

As America emerged from WWII, weddings returned to glamour. Tiaras, ball gowns, beautiful cars and professional portraiture became trendy. Celebrity weddings offered exciting pastimes. The 1960s featured London-inspired Mod style, shortening hemlines and A-line skirts. Big hair and bubble veils completed the look for the brides and long sideburns for the grooms.

1950s and 1960s glamour weddings

Wedding dress and fashion history has sure changed a lot over the years, from corsets to beaded lace, and everything in between.

Wedding dress and fashion history

The Complete History of Wedding Dresses, Suits & Other Fashion

It's time to

READ

LIKE

A PRO!

100 Years of Weddings: How the Wedding Industry Has Evolved

A History of Women’s Swimwear

Everything You Need to Know About Upcycling